Joshua Tree National Park - Stargazing
JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK - STARGAZING
Tips for Stargazing
Use Red Lights Only
Do not use bright white flashlights, headlamps, or cell phones. It takes 20-30 minutes for the human eye to fully adjust to very low light conditions. Bright lights delay this process. You can turn a regular flashlight into a red light by covering it with red cellophane, tape, fabric, paper, or similar materials.
Bring Food and Water
Plan ahead. There is no running water in most areas of the park.
Layer Up
Temperatures drop quickly in the evening. Bring extra layers of warm clothing.
Watch Your Step
Cacti, nocturnal animals, and uneven surfaces may be difficult to see at night. Use a red light to check your viewing are for hazards.
Avoid the Moon
Bright moonlight reduces the number of stars you'll see. Check the moon's phase and rise and set times to find the best time to stargaze.
Where to View the Stars and Milky Way
On a clear night and moonless, you should have no problem viewing the stars from anywhere in the park. However, light pollution from surrounding communities does impact Joshua Tree's night skies, so some areas of the park are darker than others.
Designated Stargazing Areas
There are four designated stargazing areas. They are the parking lots of Quail Springs, Hidden Valley, Cap Rock, and Ryan Mountain. Stay awake and within 20 feet (6 meters) of your vehicle, and enjoy the show.
Roadside Pullouts
Park at any of the roadside pullouts and set up chairs to watch the stars overhead. Stay awake and alert within 20 feet (6 meters) of your vehicle. The Pinto Basin Road between Cholla Cactus Garden and Cottonwood has the least traffic and darkest skies.
Joshua Tree National Park never closes.
$315 - Private Tour for 1-2 guests
$345 - Private Tour for 3 guests
$375 - Private Tour for 4 guests